(1) What is the material inside of the front fenders and what is it for? It looks like the same material that used to be under carpeting years ago. Is it waterproof? Is it used for sound deading?

 

its the firewall, insulation thats hopefully fireproof... prob not so waterproof tho.

I'm personally wondering whats behind there, if there's a nice looking metal wall the insulation is outta there.

 

If it's sound proofing it seems to work because this HHR is pretty quiet. Although I just got my HHR after trading in my Ford E150 van, so anything would be quieter than that metal trash can. I can now talk on my cell phone while in the car.

 

First noticed it when I put on my mud flaps but then saw that when you open the door you also can see it. Mine was like a frozen newspaper when I first saw it since water soaks right into it and was froze where I live. Figure it was for sound deadening. Also figure the mice or chipmunks will also like to craw up into it.

 

Too bad they didnt put any in the rear fenders. Spray from wheels is pretty loud.

 

Its a shame its so absorbent. Maybe ice and whatnot wouldn't build up in there if it wasn't so absorbent. Been thinking of making a plastic panel to cover it over...

 

GM calls it a "Front Fender Sound Insulator". So I guess the name speaks for itself.

 

Thanks Guys